Place · 1.5 mi away
Overview
A rounded Corbett on the southern edge of the park, The Sow of Atholl (803 m) is a short, satisfying hillwalk for big views with minimal faff. It rises above the A9 and rail line at Dalnaspidal, but once you’re on the slopes it feels pleasantly removed from the noise and crowds.
What You’ll See
Expect open, heathery hillsides and a broad, breezy summit with expansive views across the Drumochter Pass, Dalnaspidal and neighboring tops like the Boar of Badenoch. It’s all about spacious horizons here—no summit clutter, just a cairn and sky.
Route & Terrain
Most people start from the Dalnaspidal area, using a lay‑by/pullout before crossing the railway with care. After an initial track, the going turns pathless: heather, tussocks and occasional bog underfoot. It’s not technical, but good line‑picking and sturdy, waterproof boots make it far more pleasant.
Vibe & Who It’s For
It’s typically quiet, even in summer—ideal if you want a peaceful hill with proper views without committing to a long day. Hill‑baggers love the quick tick; photographers appreciate the skyline; anyone who dislikes pathless moor might give it a pass.
Conditions & Safety
This is an exposed hill: weather rolls in fast and visibility can vanish. Bring a map and compass (or GPS) and know how to use them. In winter or when snow lingers, treat it as a proper winter hill—ice axe, crampons, and skills required. After wet spells, expect more bog and slower going.
Wildlife
Open moorland supports upland wildlife, but sightings aren’t guaranteed. Keep an eye out and keep dogs under close control around any grazing or ground‑nesting birds.
Best Time to Visit
April–October is the sweet spot for most walkers. Go early or late in the day for softer light and a better chance of having the summit to yourself. Weekdays feel especially quiet. In winter, shorter days and snow turn this into a far more serious undertaking.
Essentials
- No facilities at the start or on the hill—bring everything you need.
- Waterproof boots and layers are your friends.
- Cross the railway carefully from the Dalnaspidal side and stick to obvious tracks only at the start; expect pathless ground soon after.
Pros
- Wide, quiet summit views over the Drumochter Pass
- Quick outing with easy access from the A9 corridor
Cons
- Mostly pathless heather and some boggy ground
- Requires a cautious railway crossing from the start near Dalnaspidal
Tips
- Start from the Dalnaspidal lay‑by and cross the railway with care.
- Carry a map and compass or GPS—the ascent is largely pathless.
- Wear waterproof boots; lower slopes can be boggy after rain.
- Check the forecast and pack windproof layers for the exposed summit.
- In winter conditions, bring axe and crampons and the skills to use them.
